Fast Chicken Soup Base

It's from scratch - and fast! With my easy formula, you can make a fresh soup du jour even on a busy weeknight.

INGREDIENTS (for 8 servings):

2 quarts chicken broth

1 quart water

1 store-bought roast chicken

3 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 large onions, cut into medium dice

2 large carrots, peeled and cut into rounds or half rounds, depending on size

2 large stalks celery, sliced 1/4 inch thick

1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves

PREPARATION:

Bring broth and water to a simmer over medium-high heat in a large soup kettle. Meanwhile, separate chicken meat from skin and bones; reserve meat. Add skin and bones to the simmering broth. Reduce heat to low, partially cover and simmer until bones release their flavor, 20 to 30 minutes.

Strain broth through a colander into a large container; reserve broth and discard skin and bones. Return kettle to burner set on medium-high.

Add oil, then onions, carrots and celery. Saute until soft, about 8 to 10 minutes. Add chicken, broth and thyme. Bring to a simmer. (Can be refrigerated up to 3 days in advance. Return to a simmer before adding the extras of your choice.)

This recipe was originally featured in the USA WEEKEND article Soup Up Your Chicken Soup on February 23, 2003.